01.06.2015 | Ausgabe 2/2015
A Within-Person Examination of the Effects of Telework
- Zeitschrift:
- Journal of Business and Psychology > Ausgabe 2/2015
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to examine telework using a within-person research methodology and to broaden the typical outcomes investigated in regards to telework.
Design/Methodology/Approach
Data were obtained from a large U.S. government organization from both supervisors and non-supervisors. Surveys were completed on five consecutive workdays when employees were either teleworking or not (n = 180). On average, employees teleworked 2.13 days during data collection.
Findings
Employees generally have a more positive work experience while teleworking. They report higher levels of job performance and job satisfaction, and did better on an objective creative task when teleworking.
Implications
Research findings can vary in magnitude and even direction when considered at different levels of analysis. The results of this study support the generally positive findings about telework from between-person research at the within-person level. Managers can utilize this information to appropriately consider when employees need to be in the office and when teleworking is a viable alternative.
Originality/Value
This is the first study to examine telework from a within-person perspective using modern teleworking employees. In addition, the outcomes associated with telework were expanded to include a broader conception of performance (i.e., creative performance). By using a within-person methodology, we can more comprehensively understand the phenomenological experience of telework.
